Hot Springs - Officials in Hot Springs say a big cat--possibly a mountain lion or cougar--has been spotted in the Lakeside area, along with similar younger cats.

One resident says she saw a large black cat carry off her small dog when she let the pet outside last week. The dog has not been found.

Other residents have also reported seeing the big cats. Hot Springs Animal Services has set up traps and cameras to try to catch them before they attack anything else. So far, they've only been able to find a footprint that measures about six inches wide.

(Dan Bugg, Animal Services Supervisor) "The issue here is public safety. Safety of our neighborhoods, safety for folks, pets, children and folks who live here. That's why we're here."

Residents in the Lakeside area of Hot Springs are urged to use extra caution around dusk and dawn, and keep a close eye on your pets and kids.